Detailed Exterior Features

We will take a closer look at some of the detailed exterior features of this case. Many things are cosmetic, but there is a great deal of function designed into this case as well.

Here we see a straight front shot of the front panel open. This handy panel is made out of metal so it feels sturdy, but it has a very prominent bounce when you open it, which makes a racket when it flops down.

You can see the front ports for HD audio, e-SATA, 2xUSB 2.0 and a Firewire port on the left hand side of the case. The reset button is also located here. I like how the reset button is hidden and flush. There is nothing worse than trying to do something and accidentally hitting the reset button.

The media card reader resides on the right side of the case. It supports a large variety of card types as well as another USB port.

This is where the LCD module would be if you opt to purchase one. It is a two line programmable module that can display things such as the current song or movie playing, as well as many other things. I did not receive one, so I did not have a way to test it out. Also, you will notice the optical drive bezel and button here. I am not sure why they would put a permanent DVD label on the case, for many people have upgraded to Blue-Ray drives for their HTPC. It is purely cosmetic, but I suppose for a layman, it could be confusing. Also, I was a bit leery of the Open/Close button. It did not really line up all that well with my optical drive button, and if I pressed too hard, it would slide off and miss.

I very much enjoy the power button on this case. It is very deceiving, as it looks like a volume knob. The HDD and Power LED are nothing to brag about, they are pretty dim to be honest, but I almost would prefer that while watching movies in the dark.

Here is a close up of the rubber feet. They can be removed, but they fit nicely with the home theater decor, and also provide protection to the case, and whatever surface you set it on.

In this picture, you can see the dual 80mm fans that are used for exhaust. Notice the 4 pin Molex connectors on them... yuck.